What are the toughest colleges to get into in Idaho?

The University of Idaho stands as the most selective and competitive college in the state, with an acceptance rate of approximately 78%. While this may seem high compared to elite universities nationwide, it represents the most challenging admission standards among Idaho institutions. The university maintains rigorous academic requirements, typically seeking students with strong GPAs and competitive test scores.

Boise State University follows as the second most competitive school in Idaho, accepting roughly 83% of applicants. The university has grown increasingly selective in recent years, particularly for certain programs like nursing and engineering. Students applying to these competitive majors often need to demonstrate higher academic achievements than those required for general admission.

The College of Idaho, a private liberal arts institution, ranks among Idaho's more selective schools with an acceptance rate of about 85%. Though its acceptance rate is relatively high, the college maintains high academic standards and attracts accomplished students from across the region. The small class sizes and personalized attention make it an attractive option for academically motivated students.

Idaho State University rounds out the group of more selective institutions in the state, though its acceptance rate of approximately 86% indicates a generally accessible admissions process. However, certain programs, particularly in health sciences and professional fields, maintain considerably more competitive admission requirements.

It's worth noting that Idaho's colleges focus more on academic preparation and student fit rather than exclusivity in their admissions processes. While acceptance rates may appear high compared to highly selective schools in other states, these institutions still maintain rigorous academic standards and offer challenging educational experiences for motivated students.